Intestinal Parasites and Theta Brainwave Changes in Children

Abstract

Background: Parasitic diseases are one of the health problems in all societies, especially in developing countries. Infection with parasites, especially in children, can be associated with learning disorders, malnutrition, anaemia, and physical disorders. On the other hand, an abnormal increase in the theta brainwave amplitude may also be one of the causes of mental slowness and disability in children’s learning, decentralization, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Objectives: In this study, we assessed the possible effects of intestinal parasites on brainwave changes in children in Karaj Health centers. Methods: A stool examination was done to separate healthy and infected children. Then, using a diagnostic interview and electroencephalography, the theta-wave was recorded in both groups. Results: From 69 children who participated in this study, 8.7% were infected with one or more intestinal parasites. Around 14.49% of all children had a high theta wave, but the interesting point was that 100% of infected children had a high theta brainwave (P value = 0.001). In contrast, only 6.34% of healthy people had high theta waves. Conclusions: In this study, there was a significant relationship between parasitic infection and brain wave changes. Parasitic diseases may alter brainwaves with unknown mechanisms and affect the ability and activities of the brain.